Our son started kindergarten at Glenallen this Fall, and I am a school psychologist in another district. So far I am as pleased as could be. The school is very orderly and uses many positive behavioral interventions! The administration is approachable and involved. Many of the teachers and support staff in the school know his name already. My son's teacher is well organized and energetic. He comes home telling me about being "tested" in reading a few times already. He also comes home with loads of work. All the children in his class are fluent English speakers (some have attended pre-k there). KAH is great! He loves it there! FWIW, our neighbors also send their older daughter there and have had the same experience.

We just moved to the area also and have been wondering about Glenallen. We had heard some things about the test scores and possibly that there wasn't a lot of attention for the students as there are a bunch of non-English speaking kids. Anyone have any experience with this?

DD is only 4 (and 1.5 years away from Kindergarden) but I hear great things about the new principal from the few moms in my neighborhood w/ school age kids. My impression is that the PTA is led by some very motivated parents who are looking to see how they can work together well w/ the school. I also am hopeful to see how the renovations go.

That said, the test scores and FARMS rate for the school are not very encouraging. I am still up in the air myself as to whether the new principal can overcome these challenges in ways that will make the school attractive for the many middle class families w/ little ones in the area.

My son goes to Glenallan, the new principal is amazing and it has translated into more parent involvement. The teachers are great and my son is learning and doing very well. I recommend Glenallan very highly.

I would also love to hear what people think of Glenallen. They just got a new principal this year so I would also like to hear how he is doing in parent's opinions.

How long do you plan on staying in the area?

If it's long term, do some research on the DCC and the choice process.

If you're looking at test scores, check out Westover, as it's one of the best elementary schools in the area. It's part of the NEC, which works in the same manner as the DCC. Some people like this process; others don't.

Hello!

We're thinking about moving near the Glenmont Metro station and wondering if anyone has opinions on Glennallen Elementary. They are getting a new school in a year and a half, and so far the few people we've met seem friendly, but their test scores are not very good relative to other school neighborhoods closer in. What is the PTA like? Does your child love learning there? What are all school events like? It's still a relatively small school for the county.

Thanks!